For a historic exploration into the Revolutionary past of the country, look no further than the Yorktown Port in Virginia. Located on the banks of the York River, this community celebrates more than 300 years of history, boasting scenic village streets, 18th century homes, Revolutionary War recreations, art galleries, trolley rides and museums. It seems history is alive everywhere in Yorktown, from its charming restaurants and quaint city streets to bed and breakfasts and antique shops.
Shopping
From the time you step off your ship at the Yorktown cruise terminal to the time you return, you will have taken in more culture, history, and recreation than you ever thought possible. The Yorktown cruise port, also known as Riverwalk Landing, is located within a shopping and dining mecca, featuring various restaurants and shops like Founding Fathers, Stars and Stripes Forever and The Yorktown Onion. Grab some ice cream at Ben and Jerry's, or stop in at Kinks and Quirks Contemporary Handcrafts for contemporary arts and crafts from more than 400 artisans.
Elsewhere, Redcoat Antiques is a must see for antique lovers, as it boasts vintage items such as 17th century furniture, paintings, silver and other gifts. Similarly, Swan Tavern Antiques offers a collection of 18th-century English furniture and accessories. Period Designs on Main Street features anything from contemporary ceramics to European antique pottery and porcelain. For a unique experience, check out Wild Birds Unlimited, which offers products designed to help bird lovers create a habitat for these winged creatures in their backyards.
Things to Do
Yorktown is teeming with historical offerings, from museums and galleries to historic homes and buildings. Plan to learn lots about the beginnings of this country during your Yorktown port of call. To immerse yourself in this history, you can't miss visiting all the old homes that hark back to a day when things were simpler, yet more difficult at the same time. Colonial waterfront dwellings such as Archer Cottage show the unique architecture of these structures and how life was led hundreds of years ago. A beautiful example of early Georgian architecture lies with the Nelson House on Main Street, which was actually the home of Thomas Nelson, Jr., a signer of the Declaration of Independence.
Nature also abounds here. The Colonial National Historical Park encompasses two historically significant sites: Jamestown and the Yorktown Battlefield. You'll also find many museums here, such as Waterman's Museum, which aims to preserve the heritage of the Watermen of the Chesapeake Bay.
Restaurants and Bars
All those recreational pursuits are bound to make you hungry. For casual elegance, dine at one of the area's oldest homes, the Carrot Tree. Or, try Waterstreet Landing for specialty sandwiches, gourmet pizza and fresh seafood, along with tasty homemade desserts, all while enjoying a view of the York River. Sample the freshest seafood around at places like Duke of York Restaurant and Bill's Seafood House, which serves up delectable dishes like grilled shrimp platters and fried fish.
Your stop at Yorktown, VA will enlighten you not only with its historical heritage, but also with its natural beauties as well. From its charming city streets to informative museums to quaint shops, you'll be immersed in the vast history of one of the country's oldest places.